Services

Services | Massage & Bodywork | Acupuncture | Seated Massage | Fees

Acupuncture

Practitioners

Conditions That Respond Well to Acupuncture/TCM treatments:

Acupuncture is a traditional oriental healing technique that supports the body’s natural capacity to heal and stay well. Because it affects the entire body and all of the organ systems, it can address a wide range of conditions from chronic and acute pain to insomnia and digestive disorders.

Acupuncture works by correcting imbalances of energy, or “qi,” in the body. When we are healthy, qi flows smoothly through our body’s meridians like water flowing along a riverbed.

Symptoms of ill health begin when the qi becomes blocked along its natural course. Injuries, pathogens, exposure to toxins, improper diet, and unhealthy emotions can all contribute to such blockages.

The acupuncturist will assess how and where the qi has become blocked in order to assist the body in correcting these blockages by gently inserting slender needles at specific points along the meridians of qi flow.

The number of treatments needed depends upon the duration, severity and nature of each individual’s condition. You may need only a single treatment for an acute condition. A series of five to fifteen treatments may resolve many chronic problems. Some degenerative conditions may require many treatments over time. Based on the assessment of your individual condition, your acupuncturist will give you an estimate of your treatment program before starting treatment.

The very fine needles, which have a rounded end rather than a sharp cutting one, are inserted into the points and are then manipulated with a gentle pumping action, by twirling or are left in place for a few minutes. These motions stimulate the flow of energy and remove blockages so that the qi can be dispersed and regulated. When the qi is flowing properly throughout the body, the balance is restored and improved health results. Insertion of these slender needles goes unnoticed by some, while others may feel a slight pinch followed by a sensation of numbness, heaviness, tingling, warmth, or electricity. In addition, only sterile, single-use, disposable needles are used so there is no chance of infection.

Traditional Chinese Medicine is a complete healing system, which can address all modern-day conditions. It incorporates the use of acupuncture, moxibustion, herbal remedies, nutrition and bodywork. Most patients find the treatment quite pleasurable inducing a deep state of relaxation, balance and a general sense of well being.

What to Expect During a Typical Treatment

  • A typical treatment lasts approximately one hour. During the initial visit a detailed health history will be taken and treatment will be conducted. The initial visit will typically last for an hour and a half.
  • Your practitioner will take your pulse, not to check your heart rate, but as a diagnostic tool to check for certain qualities relating to specific organs and meridians. She will also check the color and texture of your tongue, and then craft a customized treatment designed to enhance your overall health.
  • In most cases, your practitioner will use acupuncture to stimulate certain points along your meridians in order to bring your qi back into balance. But she might also apply small mounds of burning herbs (a technique called moxibustion) or suction cups (cupping), electro-acupuncture, or therapeutic massage. Then she may prescribe a combination of Chinese herbs and other ingredients designed to correct whatever imbalances are causing your troubles.
  • Your acupuncturist will help you understand your body, make suggestions for self-care, and guide you in maintaining optimum health.

Acupuncture and the Seasons